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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Sandra Masin (DFL)

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Honoring our Veterans and Police Officers

Friday, November 22, 2013

Dear Neighbors and Friends

I wanted to update you on all the different things I’ve been doing the past couple weeks.  Two events in particular gave me a great chance to interact with veterans and public safety officials who have sacrificed greatly to protect our way of life. 

 

Veterans Day – 2013

The State of Minnesota Veterans Day Event was celebrated at the Veterans Memorial Community Center in Inver Grove Heights.  There were veterans in attendance who have served our country in many different ways and in different places, it is very interesting to listen to the details of their experiences. 

Dick Carroll [above], an Eagan resident and a POW from World War II was there.  I had the privilege of serving on the Eagan Parks Commission with Dick.  He has been active in our community for many years and we are fortunate that his involvement continues.    

Governor Dayton was there to give the keynote address.  Other officials, including U. S. Senator Amy Klobuchar and U.S Representative Betty McCollum, were in attendance to express their gratitude for the service and sacrifice by those who served our country in the past as well as those currently serving in the military. 

One comment that sticks in my mind is that we should remember those that have served their country every day.  Many have returned with injuries and other issues that require daily attention, and our charge is to help. It is our way of honoring the sacrifices that were made.

Miss Minnesota 2013, Rebecca Yeh, played a moving rendition of “God Bless America” on her violin. Here are several pictures from the event.

The 34th ID “Red Bull” Band Brass Quintet provided the music for the event including “Taps” at the close of the program. 

This was a great way to observe Veterans Day!

 

Burnsville Police Hold Community Meeting

On Thursday evening, November 14, the Burnsville Police Department held a community meeting at Mary, Mother of the Church to address concerns about crime in the community.  Hundreds of people filled the church that evening.

Burnsville Police Chief, Eric Gieseke, gave the opening remarks.  Then Dakota County Attorney, Jim Backstrom, talked about crime trends in Dakota County.  Drew Evans of the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension followed up with remarks on crime trends statewide. 

There were about a dozen people who came forward with comments or questions from the floor. One gentleman had some statistics on bail procedures and he felt that bail for recidivist needs to be examined. The bail issue was also raised by others. The County Attorney responded that the Minnesota Constitution prohibits the denial of bail. Another resident wanted to have more access to the location of criminals in the community. Substance abuse was another topic that was brought up. 

A young man who lives in the River Hills area read a statement in which he strongly supported the Burnsville Police. He said it was impossible for 75 officers to closely watch 60,000 people and encouraged people in the community to step up when they see something going on. 

Once the meeting was closed, the discussion continued as people talked in small groups for quite some time afterward.

Sandra Masin

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